AAP Implantate AG (DE:AAQG) is undergoing a strategic transition to being a pure trauma company and Q1 results, which were within guidance, set the scene for the group in its new shape. The completed sale of its biomaterials business (based on an assumed enterprise value of €36m), a drive to growth in Western Europe and the US and cost reshaping should support management’s guidance of 20% growth in trauma products and sales in the continued operation of €13-15m in FY16.
Sale of biomaterials business finally complete
In March aap Implantate (aap) announced the signing of a share purchase agreement for the disposal of its subsidiary, aap Biomaterials to a European private equity firm for an assumed enterprise value of €36m. As a result of the disposal, assets of €13.9m and liabilities of €2.2m were reported as held for sale at FY15 and will reduce accordingly. In our view, management has a range of options to pursue with the resulting cash (estimated balance c €35m post sale), including accelerating organic growth in trauma, pursuing strategic acquisitions, or initiating a share buyback programme.
Outlook in the trauma space
The trauma portfolio centres on three technologies: aap’s anatomical plating system (LOQTEQ) for fracture repair; its antibacterial silver coating technology, which prevents the formation of biofilm and therefore reduces infection; and magnesium-based implants. Q1 revenue for its continuing business, Trauma, was reported at €2.2m vs €2.6m Q115, affected by lower sales in the volatile emerging markets. The company’s strategic aim is to drive sales in more established markets in Western Europe (where fracture indication coverage has improved for the LOQTEQ plates) and the US. With an increasing number of distributors in the US and a new experienced head of US sales, this market will be one of the key markets for stability and potential subsequent growth of the trauma business.
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